Introduction

3D printing can solve many of today’s medical limitations and issues by the design and creation of custom parts. From custom knee and arm braces, to the development of 3D printed organs, 3D printing technology is constantly improving the quality of healthcare.

 

Customized Medical Devices

One of the most common and practical ways that 3D printing helps in the medical field is in the development of customized medical devices. These devices, such as braces, corrective devices, and replacement devices, can be created on a patient-by-patient basis, which allows for the perfect fit for each individual.

In today’s medical field, some doctors have worked with tech companies to produce a system for designing and producing custom implants. Some specific examples of implants that have been successful are spinal implants, cranial implants, and hip replacements.

Prosthetics are another great use of 3D printing for medical use. 3D printed prosthetics are helpful for three main reasons. They are lightweight, thanks to the 3D materials used to print, customized to fit each patient perfectly, and easily replaceable if broken or lost.

To learn more about 3D printed prosthetics, visit this link.

 

Surgical Planning and Training

Another aspect of 3D printing that can be applied in today’s medical field is that of prototype development and preoperative training. With the simplicity and quickness of 3D printing, doctors and medical students can design prototype or replicas of operational environments which can better prepare them for the real operation. Another use of these models can be to explain the procedure to the patient, which may give them a sense of ease about the operation.

Medical students can also benefit from highly customized and accurate models when training and practicing for their careers. Using a realistic, physical model can be extremely beneficial when used in connection with virtual reality programs. The models can even be combined to use with the virtual programs to provide maximum realism and better educational learning environments.

 

Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

One area of medical research that is currently being developed, and will surely continue to be used in the future, is that of 3D bio-printing. This technology could lead to the ability to produce actual organs and tissues for replacement use. Although this type of technology may take some time to make practically useful and perfected, its benefits are sure to be worth the wait.

Some challenges arise when working to develop bio-printing materials. There are strict federal regulations on tissue engineering, especially in bio compatibility. In addition, it is hard to get ethically-sourced and functional test subjects for developing bio-compatible material.

Currently, research continues on these topics and we are sure to see future developments in the field.

 

Patient Care and Rehabilitation

A third benefit of 3D printing in the medical field is in the patient care and rehabilitation aspect. With 3D printing, healthcare professionals can provide quality care and resources for the patients under their charge. For example, hearing aids parts can be printed to fit customers’ ears perfectly and comfortably. Glasses frames can also be 3D printed in lightweight and comfortable material options.

Foot and knee braces or similar corrective devices can also be printed to exact measurements of patients, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. The better the part fits, the more effective the treatment will be.

In addition, 3D printed models can allow doctors and health professionals explain a treatment or process to patients, helping them to be engaged and encouraged as they progress. These models can also allow students to better grasp concepts and make connections to treatment types.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, 3D printing has many benefits in the medical world. Not only does it help students and doctors in understanding concepts about procedures or treatments, but it also allows patients to be better informed about their personal health journeys. Additionally, 3D printing allows for many custom medical parts to be produced quickly and easily, from braces, to prosthesis, to corrective devices. In the future, 3D printing may even be able to produce new bio-components for patients that doctors can use in heart surgeries or similar in-depth operations.

Learn more about medical uses for 3D printing here or start an order with JawsTec here. Contact us with questions at [email protected]!